How not to use QR Codes in your campaigns

What they don’t know is WHY this is so. Ease of QR Code generation has allowed marketers to exploit the technology (and even blame it) for bad campaigns.

In my posts, I usually talk about how to use QR Codes more effectively to increase the conversion rate of your campaigns. But this one is right opposite – what not to do with QR Codes!

Get ready to be fascinated by the awesomeness of some clueless marketers:

1. No one will risk their lives no matter how great QR Codes are

Learning: QR Codes should be of adequate size (See: Minimum Size of a QR Code) and in reachable non-life-threatening distances.

2. No one will run after them either

Learning: QR Codes are useful when the scanner is mobile. Not when the QR Code is itself mobile. Never ever put a QR Code on moving vehicles.

3. Most QR Codes don’t make sense online

Learning: Unless you are using specific mobile-only type of content such as App Downloads or Contact Information, adding a QR Code on a webpage doesn’t make sense. A link will do just fine. A QR Code is to connect the physical world to the online world.

4. The least you could do was to make QR Codes scannable

Learning: Test your QR Codes before putting them up on campaigns. The last thing you want is a frustrated potential customer.

5. QR Codes make little sense in non-network zones

Learning: Make sure your potential customers have access to mobile internet or Wi-Fi in places where you are running your ad campaigns. Underground subway with no network is not one of them.

6. Reward your customers not endanger them

Learning: To put is simply, make sure it’s not ‘awkward’ for your potential customers to scan the QR Code.

Conclusion

QR Code are very useful but like every technology there are a few rules. Follow these and see instant increase in the engagement level.

Create a scannable QR Code for your campaign

Gautam Garg is a Co-founder of Scanova. He is a QR Code enthusiast and a big fan of inbound marketing, CRO, and usability. When taking a break, he likes to travel solo and eat spicy food. Follow him on Twitter @GGarg88